An official doxology was held at the Cathedral of the Annunciation of the Theotokos in Sydney, Australia, to mark the official reception of Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, who arrived in the country to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Holy Archdiocese of Australia.
Visibly moved by his visit to Australia after nearly 30 years, the Ecumenical Patriarch addressed the Greek Orthodox faithful gathered at the Church, emphasizing, “You are all cherished and beloved children, who, in difficult times, left the Motherland in search of better living conditions, yet carried with you the deep longing to return to your roots.
From Constantinople, we express our profound joy and gratitude for this blessed migration to the distant continent of Oceania, at the farthest corners and edges of the world, which so beautifully affirms the ecumenical and boundless spirit of the Greek community. In doing so, you continue to share the radiant light of the Holy Great Church of Christ,” he declared.
Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew also spoke about Archbishop Makarios of Australia, emphasizing that “your Shepherd is worthy of praise and commendation, for in obedience to the Holy and Great Church of Christ and the Patriarch, he came here to this distant fifth continent in 2019. From the very moment of his arrival, he has shown his dedication, working tirelessly to promote unity.” And thanks to the Archbishop’s efforts, everything is moving towards a successful outcome.”
The Ecumenical Patriarch arrived in Sydney on Friday, where he was greeted by Archbishop Makarios of Australia and many faithful in a grand and heartfelt reception at the airport.
The Holy Synod was also present at the reception, along with members of the Australian government, including the Minister of Immigration and the Minister of Workplace Relations.
The presence of both Greek and Australian media was strong, highlighting the significance attributed to the Ecumenical Patriarch’s visit to Australia.